
Dear MedSend friends,
I am excited to announce that MedSend will be traveling to Israel in 2024! I hope you will join us to experience Scripture’s transformative power by discovering the land of its stories, where Jesus’ ministry of healing and preaching unfolded.
With an itinerary prepared by Pilgrim Tours, we are pleased to have pastors Dan McCandless and Don Logan as our guides. Dan, a Pastor of Outreach for over 20 years with extensive experience leading tours through Israel, will share his wisdom and teaching along with way. Don will bring his heart for missions as the former pastor of a missionary church in Guatemala to his unique insights into our specially curated itinerary.
Come and discover the tangible history of the healing ministry of Jesus as Scripture bursts into living color throughout this amazing journey. All these unforgettable experiences wait for you: sail on the Sea of Galilee, study God’s word on the shores of Capernaum, pray on the Mount of Beatitudes, swim in the Dead Sea, take communion at the Garden tomb, and walk the ancient streets of Jerusalem!
We know you’ll experience the power of scripture like never before!
Reserve your spot today.
In Christ,
Rick Allen

Day 1: Today we embark on our Journey to the Holy Land.
Prepare yourself for a life-changing experience. Get some rest on the flight . . . tomorrow you will be walking where Jesus walked!

Day 2: Arrive Israel, Joppa, Caesarea
Arrive in Israel where you meet your guide and travel to the ancient port area of Joppa. Visit Simon the Tanner's house and see the place where Jonah set sail. We then travel by private motor coach along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea to Caesarea, where Gentiles first heard the Good News from Peter and were baptized. We’ll see the Roman Amphitheatre and aqueduct, then continue northward to our hotel for one night in Netanya. The remainder of the day is free to walk along the Mediterranean, relax, and have dinner. Following dinner, we will meet for a group devotional with the sun setting over the "Great Sea." Enjoy a time of prayer of thanks for safety and the special blessings ahead, a prayer for the people of the "Promised Land", and a good night’s rest.

Day 3: Mt. Carmel, Megiddo, Nazareth Village, Mt. Arbel
After breakfast we journey on to Mt. Carmel, where Elijah challenged King Ahab and the prophets of Baal. Next, we travel through the Jezreel Valley to Megiddo, the Armageddon Battlefield, where archaeologists have unearthed 20 levels of civilization. We drive through the area of Cana and Nazareth, the boyhood home of Jesus, where we visit the Nazareth Village - a wonderful recreation of Biblical times with costumed guides. We then travel to the top of Mt. Arbel for a scenic view overlooking the entire Galilee region. We will have dinner and overnight lodging for the next two nights in the Tiberias area on the Sea of Galilee.

Day 4: Kursi, Capernaum, Magdala, Sea of Galilee Boat Ride, Mt. of Beatitudes
First, we visit Kursi where Jesus healed the man ravaged by a legion of demons. Next, we visit the possible site of the multiplication of loaves and fishes in Bethsaida and the Mount of the Beatitudes. We continue with a visit to the ancient Fisherman Boat followed by a relaxing cruise on the Sea of Galilee. We then visit Capernaum, where Jesus performed several healing miracles: the woman with an issue of blood, raising Jairus' daughter to life, and healing Peter's mother-in-law. Next, we visit Magdala, hometown of Mary Magdalene. The recent excavation of the First Century Synagogue and well-preserved village makes Magdala one of the most interesting Biblical sites in Israel.

Day 5: Jordan River Baptism Site, Beth Shean, & Dead Sea
We begin our day with the opportunity to be baptized at the Jordan River Baptismal site. Next, we travel southward to Beit-Shean/Scythopolis, the most magnificent archeological site in Israel, located at the strategic juncture of the Jezreel and Jordan valleys. Like Jericho, it has been almost continuously occupied throughout history. During the time of Jesus, Scythopolis was one of the chief cities of the Decapolis - a league of ten cities sharing Greek culture and government. Following the fertile Jordan Valley southward, your guide will point out the agricultural restoration of the “Land of Milk and Honey” and Israel’s intricate irrigation development. We will pass ancient Jericho, the oldest city in the world and the area where Jesus restored the sight of blind Bartimaus. To the east of Jericho along the Jordan River Valley (Qasr El Yahud) is the Israeli side of Bethany Beyond the Jordan. In this area Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist, Elijah and Elisha crossed the Jordan, and the children of Israel, led by Joshua, entered the Promised Land. Our lodging for the evening is at the Dead Sea – the lowest place on earth. Spend time in the special spa and enjoy a dip in the Dead Sea for a relaxing float before dinner.

Day 6: Masada, Ein Gedi, Dead Sea Scrolls, Abraham's Tent
Our day begins with a cable car ride to the mountain top fortress of Masada. Here our guide will treat us to the history of the famous zealot stand. Afterwards we proceed to Ein Gedi, "Spring of the Goat," an oasis on the western shore of the Dead Sea. This is where David found rest and refreshment as he hid from King Saul and where God defeated the enemies of the Israelites by praise and worship led by King Jehoshaphat. Next, we visit Qumran Caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. This afternoon we will take part in the Genesis Land/Dinner in Abraham's Tent, where we enjoy a trip back in time: a reliving of life in the time of the Patriarchs, complete with costumes, dramatic presentation, and authentic food. Our lodging for the next four nights will be in Jerusalem.

Day 7: Jerusalem
Conditions permitting, we will visit the Temple Mount, with commentary on the Temple Periods, and the variety of belief systems past and present that make this area so valuable. Next, we visit the Pool of Bethesda, where Jesus healed a man lame for 38 years. We will walk through Stephen's Gate and sing in St. Anne's Church, a domed edifice with beautiful acoustics. We then continue to the Judgement Hall of Pilate, hear of those who conspired against Him and are reminded of His brutal beating and humiliation. While walking along the Via Dolorosa, we are reminded of His way of suffering along with a visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Our guide will explain the differing opinions on the route that Christ was led and the actual place of crucifixion and burial, which is a fascinating study. We then walk down bustling King David Street and out of the Old City through the Jaffa Gate. An interesting and educational time awaits us at the Israel Museum where we will walk through collections of century’s old Israeli artifacts including the Dead Sea Scrolls, and then a guided walk through an accurately detailed model of Biblical Jerusalem. This model will help put into perspective all that you have seen over the previous days touring. We conclude the day with a visit to Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Museum, for a needed reminder of what the Jews have suffered as a people.

Day 8: Jerusalem
Today we walk where Jesus walked; beginning the day with a panoramic view of the city, Mount Moriah and the Dome of the Rock from atop the Mount of Olives. We will stop in the Pater Naster Church and Dominus Flevit Church on your walk down to the Garden of Gethsemane and Church of All Nations. How many have wished to be whisked back in time to get a glimpse of our Lord or hear His voice if only for a moment? To walk between the ancient olive trees, read the scriptures of Jesus' prayer and take time for personal reflection is important here. Next, we visit the Southern Wall Excavations. This southern side of The Temple was the main entrance for the common folk, whereas the Priests and Levites had their own entrance from the higher eastern side. Parts of the giant stairs, which led to the Temple Mount from the courtyard, have been unearthed along with the purification pools. From here Jesus entered the Temple Mount and drove out the vendors and money exchangers who were exploiting the people. It is also likely that this is the place that Peter stood and preached and where thousands were saved and baptized on the Day of Pentecost. Next, we will visit the Wailing Wall and the Jewish Quarter including the Cardo.

Day 9: Jerusalem
We continue our sightseeing just outside the Dung Gate on the southeastern hill below the Temple Mount in the City of David. It was during the time of Solomon that the city limits extended past this part of Jerusalem. We then visit Gihon Springs, the original water source for Jerusalem, view new excavations including a typical Israelite four-room house, and the lower city wall. A highlight today will be a water walk through the incredible Hezekiah's Tunnel to the pool of Siloam, the place of Jesus' miracle in John 9. Passing by the Protestant Cemetery, we visit the "Upper Room" just outside the Zion Gate where the disciple whom Jesus loved laid his head on His breast and where later Thomas cried, "my Lord & my God." Next, we spend time at the House of Caiaphas (St. Peter Gallicantu) where Jesus was beaten and spit upon. We will see a pit where He may have been held for the evening and the ancient hillside steps He walked as He was taken to be condemned. Next, we stop at the Succot Hallel 24/7 Prayer Center overlooking the Hinnom Valley for a time of worship and prayer. The climax of the day is the area of Golgotha (place of the skull) and the Garden Tomb, where we celebrate the resurrection with communion and a time of praise.

Day 10: Homeward
Following breakfast at our hotel, we transfer to the Tel Aviv airport for our flight home.
Itinerary subject to change while touring for the best interest of the group.


Don Logan graduated from Cincinnati Bible College and Seminary in 1989 with a degree in Christian Ministry. He has pastored a wide range of churches through the years, but his most beloved church home was pastoring a missionary church in Guatemala from 2008-2013. He is currently the Teaching Pastor at Eternal Church in Fort Mill, SC. This will be Don’s first time leading an Israel tour and he is excited about bringing the Bible to life using context and original language, sharing the Gospel with all of its beauty and offense as it was first delivered. He looks forward to the opportunity to share the true mission behind Jesus' healing ministry while visiting some of the places where these amazing miracles took place.
Price/Person(based on double occupancy) |
Description |
---|---|
$3,850 |
Includes airfare from New York City |
$2,950 |
Land Only Price |
$950 |
Single Supplement |
RESERVATIONS
A $300 per person US Dollar deposit is required to secure a reservation. Your reservation is not considered confirmed until Pilgrim Tours has received both the deposit and completed reservation form. Tour members must be 18+. Reservations are due January 19, 2024 and can be sent to: Pilgrim Tours PO Box 268 Morgantown, PA 19543.
FINAL PAYMENT
Final payment will be due February 29, 2024. Payment can be made by check, Visa, Discover, or Master Card. Payments not received on time will be subject to a minimum $200 per person penalty and may result in reservation cancellation without refund. Reservations made after the final payment deadline may result in additional administrative fees and are at the discretion of Pilgrim Tours.
INCLUDED
Roundtrip air from New York City including current air taxes and fuel surcharges (taxes and fuel charges are subject to change) on Turkish Air; 8 nights lodging at 4 star hotels; breakfast and dinner daily; full-time English-speaking tour escort; services of air-conditioned deluxe motor coach; all guides, entrances, touring and transportation as appears on itinerary; baggage handling at hotels (one piece); tips to driver, guides, and hotel staff; Pilgrim payment processing by check, Visa, Master Card, or Discover.
NOT INCLUDED
All lunches, Israel VAT tax of $160 – will be added if passport copy is not provided, optional travel insurance (7.95% or 10.85% of tour cost).
CANCELLATION
Cancellation in writing must be received by Pilgrim Tours for appropriate refund minus the following fees and any nonrefundable services purchased. Air penalties are not part of the percentages below and vary based on the airline policy. Travel insurance is non-refundable.
91+ Days Prior: $100 penalty
90-61 Days Prior: Deposit Amount of $300 per person
60-46 Days Prior: 40% of tour cost
45-31 Days Prior: 65% of tour cost
30-8 Days Prior: 85% of tour cost
7 Days Prior or less: 100% of tour cost
Pilgrim Tours service fee structure:
When signing up for a tour offered by Pilgrim Tours, a deposit is required to confirm your reservation. Part of the deposit for the advertised tour includes a $100 per person service fee assessed by Pilgrim Tours that is non-refundable and non-transferable. The reason for not traveling can be either the traveler cancelling, or the tour being postponed, suspended or cancelled due to but not limited to acts of God, war, terrorist acts, political unrest, epidemics, pandemics, or government imposed travel restrictions. In registering for a tour, a tour member agrees to the service fee as well as all terms and conditions as outlined on the tour reservation form.
PRICING
Quoted tour prices include planning, handling and operational charges are based on the current rate of exchange and tariffs. In the event of a marked change in foreign exchange rates, fuel costs or tariff rates, tour costs are subject to revision. Such increases will be added to the final billing. Pilgrim Tours reserves the right to vary itineraries and prices, and to substitute facilities and hotels of equal or better quality if necessary.
INCLUDED
Roundtrip air from New York City including current air taxes and fuel surcharges (taxes and fuel charges are subject to change) on Turkish Air; 8 nights lodging at 4 star hotels; breakfast and dinner daily; full-time English-speaking tour escort; services of air-conditioned deluxe motor coach; all guides, entrances, touring and transportation as appears on itinerary; baggage handling at hotels (one piece); tips to driver, guides, and hotel staff; Pilgrim payment processing by check, Visa, Master Card, or Discover.
NOT INCLUDED
All lunches, Israel VAT tax of $160 – will be added if passport copy is not provided, optional travel insurance (7.95% or 10.85% of tour cost).
RESPONSIBILITIES
These tour programs are operated by Pilgrim Tours and Travel, Inc., 3071 Main Street, Morgantown, Pennsylvania 19543. In common with other companies, Pilgrim acts only as an agent for tour members in arranging vacation services offered on this website, including transportation, sightseeing, and accommodations through independent contracts. Air carriers, accommodations, and other suppliers (including but not limited to trains, cruises, ferries, motor coaches, hotels, tour guides, and restaurants) providing these services are independent contractors and are not agents, employees, servants, or joint ventures of the Company or its affiliates. All travel documents for services issued by the Company are subject to the terms & conditions specified by the contracted supplier, which are available upon request, and are subject to the laws of the countries in which the services are supplied. Tours postponed, suspended, or cancelled due to but not limited to acts of God, war, terrorist acts, political unrest, epidemics, or pandemics are subject to service fees by Pilgrim Tours. In registering for a tour, tour members agree to the terms and conditions for the tour they have registered for. Pilgrim Tours reserves the right in its sole discretion to make changes in the itinerary and is not responsible for expenses, loss of time, money, or other incidents resulting from a change of tour scheduling made for tour members. Pilgrim Tours is not responsible for any losses or damagesof personal property, injuries, thefts, sickness or unforeseen expenses incurred by any tour member.
AIR TRANSPORTATION
For your convenience, Pilgrim Tours is happy to book your airfare as part of a group air contract which allows the group to fly together at a set price. A group air contract requires a minimum of 10 passengers flying roundtrip from the same city, on the same air schedule, and on the same dates. Pilgrim Tours does not have the ability to guarantee assigned seating when making group air arrangements. Air carriers are responsible for seat assignments, and most group air contracts assign seats at the airport check-in on the day of departure. Once ticketed, group air tickets are not upgradable to premium economy or business class, and mileage credit is not guaranteed and is subject to the rules of each airline. If interested in an upgrade, please notify Pilgrim Tours at time of deposit and no later than 100 days before travel. All taxes, fuel charges, and security fees are subject to change based on the ticketing date. Passengers wishing to cancel or change their air reservations may be subject to change fees or cancellation penalties. Pilgrim Tours is not responsible for unforeseen flight delays or changes due to war, political unrest, acts of God, epidemics, or pandemics. Air schedules may be subject to change at the discretion of the airline. Pilgrim Tours does not accept liability in the case of any passenger being denied boarding by any airline carrier due to the carrier’s overbooking of a flight.
TOUR MEMBERSHIP & MOBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Tour membership is available to all travelers and will not be withheld if the tour operator can furnish the requirements that an individual may need. Because most of our Retail Tour sightseeing schedules require Tour Members to walk 1-2 miles at a time using a moderate pace and sometimes navigate uneven terrain, we cannot accept persons who cannot do that and instead require special assistance. Should any Tour Member's participation somehow materially add to the tour operator's cost, the Tour Member will be expected to pay any additional costs. The Tour Director retains the right to require any non-sufficiently mobile persons to stay behind when deemed necessary, and also terminate the membership of any member displaying disruptive behavior, delaying or endangering fellow members and/or interfering with the operations of the tour. Private group tours vary in regards to mobility standards.
PROOF OF US CITIZENSHIP, PASSPORT, VISA & MINOR CHILDREN REQUIREMENTS
All international tours require a current passport. Entrance to most countries requires your passport be valid for 6 months after your return date. Your passport information must be recorded by a Pilgrim Tours agent when making your reservation. Names on airline tickets must appear as shown on passport. Photocopies are not acceptable forms of identification. Minors traveling with either one parent or no parents must have a certified letter of permission from the parent or parents who is/are not traveling. If requested, this letter must be presented. Non U. S. Citizens are responsible to fulfill appropriate entry requirements of the destination country. Contact the local Consulate of the countries you plan to visit and transit for entry requirement information.
BAGGAGE
Although every effort is made to handle passengers’ luggage as carefully as possible, Pilgrim Tours is not responsible for and does not assume liability or accept claims for loss of or damage to luggage due to breakage, theft or wear and tear through hotel, group carrier or airline handling. There are limitations by coach and air carrier as to the number and size of bags which can be carried onboard and in bulk storage. However, during the tour, passengers are permitted one checked suitcase and one carry-on bag unless otherwise noted. Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage. Please contact the airline or refer to the airline's website for detailed information regarding checked baggage policies. This is a fee levied by the airlines, not Pilgrim Tours, and may be subject to change.
TRAVEL INSURANCE - AVAILABLE FOR ALL PASSENGERS
Pilgrim Tours strongly suggests purchasing a travel insurance plan. Be sure to check with your health insurance provider as many US medical coverage plans may not cover you outside of the country. Insurance costs are based on the total tour cost, including air taxes and charges listed under "Not Included." These charges are added to the final billing. Approximate amounts can be given at time of reservation in order to purchase the appropriate amount of insurance. Travel Insurance is non-refundable. For a full explanation of Pilgrim Tours Terms and Conditions please visit https://www.pilgrimtours.com/company/policies.htm